ABU announces resumption date

Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in Kaduna State has fixed Monday, January 25th, 2021 as the date for the reopening of the institution for academic activities.

This was contained in a release issued by Director of Public Affairs of the university, Mallam Auwal Umar on Tuesday.

It said that the resumption date was subject to review by the Federal Government.

The statement titled, ‘Ahmadu Bello University fixes January 25 for reopening,’ said the resumption date was approved by the Senate of the University at its 501st (Special) Meeting on Tuesday.

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“The 2019/2020 academic session would be completed based on the adjusted calendar as approved by the Senate,’’ said the statement.

“The decision to reopen the University followed the suspension of ASUU strike, and the directive by National Universities Commission based on the advisory/clearance by the Presidential Taskforce on COVID- 19 that Universities could reopen as from 18th January 2021 under strict observance of COVID-19 protocols.”

It added that the reopening of the university would be on a phased basis.

‘’The first phase of resumption would include, all graduating/final-year students, 100 and 200 levels students, all clinical medical students and all postgraduate students to be handled virtually using online ICT-supported blended teaching and learning arrangement.’’

‘’The second phase, the statement added, would comprise all other non-graduating classes, 300 level in the case of a four-year degree programme, 300 and 400 levels in the case of a five-year degree programme as well as 300, 400 and 500 levels in the case of a six-year degree programme.’’

According to the statement,“It should be noted that all non-pharmaceutical COVID-19 protocols would be strictly observed anywhere on campus and every student must submit online an undertaking to abide by all the COVID-19 protocols both within and outside the Campus. Students who failed to complete and submit this form online will not be able to print their exams card.

“In addition, the University Management would, within the limit of its resources, support the University Health Service with the provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and a Holding Bay to ensure safe handling of any suspected cases.

“Equally, Management would take all necessary actions to strengthen the security architecture of the University and assure the University community of adequate safety and security.”